THEIR TO-MORROWS 

A PLAY 

IN FOUR SCENES 
By 

TACIE MAY HANNA 

of 
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA 



Written for the Boys Work Committee of the Rotary Club of San Ber- 
nardino, California, and successfully produced by that club before 
an audience of more than twelve hundred persons with the object 
of promoting attendance at the San Bernardino Night School 



Purchased by the International Association of Rotary Clubs on the initiative, 

and with the generous co-operation, of the Rotary Club of San 

Bernardino, for the purpose of furthering the work of 

inspiring boys to secure a thorough education 




International Association op Rotary Clubs 

910 S. Michigan Avenue 

Chicago, U. S. A. 






^V 



Copyright 1920 
International Association of Rotary Clubs 




THP96-Q07C89 






'CI.D 57942 



APR 16 1921 



■ 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 

THE CHARACTERS 

IN THE ORDER OP THEIR APPEARANCE 

Mrs. Butler A sweet, earnest woman who has known much hard work 

Jack Butler A bright, energetic young fellow of eighteen 

Mr. Butler A gruff, hard-working man 

Margaret Rowell A beautiful girl of about eighteen 

George Rowell ...A carefree boy of sixteen, who lives for a "good time" 

Mr. Rowell..Aw energetic, fairly prosperous business man in his early forties 

Mrs. Rowell An attractive, motherly woman 

Miss Pearson A stenographer 

Office boy. 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 

Scene I — Dining room of the Butler home. 
Time — Six-thirty on a winter's morning. 

Characters 

Mrs. Butler A sweet, earnest woman who has known much hard work 

Mr. Butler A gruff, hard-working man 

Jack Butler... t ..A bright, energetic young fellow of eighteen 

The scene is a cheaply furnished room which serves as living room and 
dining room. The furniture, carpets, etc., are the worse for wear. There 
are entrances at the Left, Bight and Center, and down stage, ait the Right, 
is a stove near which are two chairs ladlen* with clothes, indicating thai 
children must have undressed by the fire. In the center of the room is a 
table partially spread for breakfast. 

A moment after the curtain rises Mrs. Butler enters from the Kitchen 
(C), places some dishes on the table, puts coffee-pot on stove and returns 
to the Kitchen. She is a thin, tired little woman who shows the result of 
hard work. 

As the mother disappears, Jack enters from the left. He is an ener- 
getic young fellow of seventeen. He takes off his cap and the old overcoat 
he is wearing and throws them on the couch near the door, whistling softly 
the while. Then he goes over to the fire and starts to warm his hands. The 
mother enters with a pitcher and cups. 

Mother 

(Putting things on table) 
Why, Jack, you back already? 

Jack 

Sure am. Some luck this time. Every kid was there to take his 
route. I got them off on the dot and didn't have to deliver a single paper. 
Gee ! If it would only go like this every morning, I could get more done. 
I've made extra good this month as it is, — 'have five for you besides the 
fifteen for dad. 

Mother 
( Who has been working at table) 
Oh, Jack, I couldn't take it. You need a new hat and — so many 
things ! 

Jack 
(Rubbing his hands to warm them) 
Never you mind about me. 

Mother 
Stir up the fire and you'll get warm. 

Jack 

Where's dad? 

Mother 
I haven't called him yet. He seemed so tired last night, I thought 
I'd let him sleep until the last minute. 

Jack 

(Beaming) 

Got some news that may make even him take off his hat to me. 



6 THEIR TO-MORROWS 

Mother 

{Eagerly) 
What's happened, Jack? 

Jack 
Oh, you'll be tickled silly, mother. I wanted to waken you when I 
cot home from the library last night. 

Mother 
You don't mean that you have been chosen? 

Jack 
How did you guess? Well, that's it, all right. Mr. Ballinger told 
me last evening that I was to be one of the championship debaters. He 
says my scholarship record for the two and a half years of school isn't 
the highest by a good deal because I had such a hard time with those for- 
eign languages. But he says I'm winning, and that report card I showed 
you yesterday was one of the best the old school turned out this quarter. 
And since my debating record is 0. K., why, I'm one of the fellows to 
represent the school. How's that? Think dad will be impressed? 

Mother 
{Hesitating) 
I — I hope so. 

{Tenderly) 
I know I'm very proud of you, dear. , 

Jack 
Oh, yesterday was a red-letter day, all right. Something else hap- 
pened that I don't mind telling you about — you always understand. 

Mother 
{Interrupting) 
I must see to the breakfast, Jack — 

Jack 
{Detaining her in his eagerness) 
Just one minute, mother. You know the big football game comes 
a week from Saturday. Well, I'm going to see that game or bust. I can 
arrange my Saturday job all right, and I have two comps. for ticket- 
selling. Our chances of winning are bully. We have a dandy bunch of 
rooters and they wanted me to help "Sport" Finley lead the yells, but 
I told them "Nothing doing," and guess why. I've asked Margaret 
Rowell to go with me and she's accepted. How's that? 

Mother 
{Inquiringly and with lively interest) 
Margaret Rowell? 

Jack 
{His enthusiasm increasing) 
Sure thing. She's the Queen of the school— a wonderful girl. We've 
been rivals in some of our classes for two years. She's always been 
pleasant to me, but — Oh, well — I couldn't get up the courage to ask her 
to go anywhere. You see, her brother George is a Soph this year, and 
already he's one of the sports, silk shirts and his dad's car, and all that 
sort of thing. I didn't know how she'd feel about stepping out with the 
janitor boy who wears patched clothes — 

Mother 
{Earnestly) 
It isn't the money or clothes that make the man, my boy. 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 7 

Jack 

I know that, all right, mother, but we will have to agree that some- 
times they fix him up pretty well. I'll make good, all right, if I once get 
a decent education as a foundation. By the time I get through high 
school, I hope I'll know how to get right down and dig things out. Then 
I'm going to dig my way through college if I can, and get ready for liv- 
ing in some big way. (After a pause, during which the mother looks at 
clock in the room): Gee! When I think about a week from Saturday 
I get palpitations, sure thing. Margaret is .some girl. Wonder what 
she'll say when she hears I'm to be one of the championship debaters! 

Mother 
Perhaps she'll say as I always do — that she knew you'd make good. 
Now hurry, dear, and get an hour's sleep. You can eat breakfast with 
the children. 

Jack 
That's right. I didn't get to bed until nearly midnight, and I pulled 
out before four. 

(He stops at the door) 
Mum's the word. I'll tell dad tonight. 

(As he exits, left, mother goes to door on right; opens it) 

Mother 
Oh, you're up, John! I thought I'd let you sleep until breakfast 
was ready for you. 

(Enter John Butler, Jack's father. He is rather a large man, hardwork- 
ing, gruff. He wears his work clothes) 
Father 
Well, I'm ready for breakfast. 

(Goes over to fire; looks about) 
Jack back yet? I've been wanting to see him. 

Mother 
He's been wanting to see you, too, John. He's gone to get an hour's 
sleep before school — 

Father 
H'm. Well, I'll see him this evening. Where's breakfast? 

Mother 
(Starting toward kitchen) 
I'll put it on. 
(Turning back to cupboard in room, and taking some papers from it) 
While you wait — here are the bills that came yesterday. I didn't 
show them to you last night — you seemed so tired. 

(She puts the bills before him and hurries into the kitchen. He 

opens a couple without comment, then:) 

Father 

(Calling to her) 

Mother! Sarah! How about this gas bill? Five dollars! That's 

highway robbery. How about it? 

Mother 
(Bringing in the cereal amd toast) 
I've been doing Mrs. Williams' washing to get money to pay for 
Susan's music lessons. 

(During the speeches that follow the mother goes back and forth 

to the kitchen as the meal requires, and the father eats 

his breakfast) 



8 THEIR TO- MORROWS 

Father 

And givin' all the money you make to the gas man! I can't stand 
a bill like that! You'll have to cut out Susan's lessons. She plays good 
enough. 

Mother 

No, John. She's twelve and she really ought to have some lessons. 
She practices on Mrs. Williams' piano. 

Father 

I can't help that! I'm not goin' to have you doin' washin' to pay 
for high-falootin' ideas. 

Mother 

(Earnestly, as she pours coffee) 

I save every way 1 can — we must look after our children's needs. 

Father 
Needs. Well, don't I? They've never .starved a winter yet. 

(Impatiently) 
Why, you and me never had none of them music lessons, an' this an' 
that you're always fussin' about them havin'. What's good enough for 
me an' you is good enough for them. That's my preachin'. 

Mother 
(Truly distressed) 
But father !— 

Father 
Look here. If we start out tryin' to give 'em these extras we'll be 
startin' something we can't finish. We'll make 'em discontented an' 
they'll be pityin' us 'cause we ain't got this an' that — look at Jack now — 

Mother 
But, John, don't you see — 

Father 
(Interrupting, as he picks up another bill) 
So you took Dick to the dentist, after all? 

Mother 

Yes, I had to. The bill isn't large. 

Father 
Did his teeth ache him? 

Mother 
No, but they are his second teeth, and they are so very crooked. 

Father 
There you go again — crooked ! If his teeth ache him, get 'em fixed, 
of course. But I don't want to hear no more talk about straightenin ' 
crooked teeth, understand? Why, my teeth point ever' which way, an' 
I can't say as I mind. I'm used to 'em — they's enough of 'em that hits. 
You an' me an' our kids belong to the class o' people who have to take 
things as they find 'em in this world. 

Mother 

(Meekly) 
Let me get you some more mush, John. 

Father 
(Motioning her away) 
That grocery bill is twice what it used to be, but you notice I ain't 
kickin' on the grocery bill — even if it is highway robbery. We've grotta 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 9 

eat, no matter what it costs. That's about all the pleasure I git out o' 
life. It's the unnecessities that I can't and won't stand for. 

(After a\ short pause) 
It ain't goin' to be so hard to meet the bills next month. 

Mother 
(Surprised) 
You going to have a raise? 

Father 
A raise? Well, I guess not — unless we strike again. 

Mother 
(Anxiously ) 
Strike? 

Father 
Don't worry. There ain't nothin' like that in the air, worse luck. 
I was just remarkin' that' we've had a bit o' good luck an' the bills ain't 
goin' to be so hard to meet. 

Mother 
Why? 

Father 
Charlie Creighton's quittin' his job— you know — that's the one Jack 
held down last summer while Charlie took a month off. It's an easy 
enough job, good pay an ' m short hours. I didn't have any trouble landing 
it for Jack. Ain't that luck for you? 

Mother 
(Greatly distressed) 
For Jack, did you say? - ' 

Father 
Sure, Jack's good an' smart. He's to begin work on Monday next. 

Mother 
Why, Ja*ck 's in school ! 

Father 
Well, he can stop school. He's old enough to quit lettin' pleasure 
interfere with business. 

Mother 
(Pleading) 
But Jack's not through school yet! 

Father 
No, he ain't through, an' he ain't never goin' to be, as I can see. I 
heard him talkin' about college the other day, an' what not! If he don't 
get down to a steady job pretty quick he won't be worth nothin'. 

Mother 
But, John, he's more than paid his way so far. He works mornings, 
after school and Saturdays. 

Father 
Well, he'll make four times as much at the new job. He's seventeen. 
He's got a whole lot more'n common school learnin' — he's got all he 
needs an' more. 

Mother 

(Surprised at her own daring) 
John, you mustn't try to take Jack out of school. I thought we'd 
had our last argument about that. 



10 THEIR TO- MORROWS 

Father 

(His patience exhausted) 
Who's at the head o' this house? Why is it you always make trouble 
whenever I begin plannin' for the children? I know what's best for that 
boy. Here, heat up my coffee, will you? 

(He hands her his cup; she takes it and silently pours coffee from pot 
on stove. Suddenly the door on the left is opened and Jack rushes in.) 

Mother 

Why, Jack ! I thought you were sleeping. 

Jack 

(Breezily) 
I was just going off when it popped into my head that I have to be 
at school early this morning — 'the quartette practices. 

Father 

( With a touch of scorn) 
Singin' lessons, eh? 

Jack 
Sure, we are getting ready for a concert. 

Father 

Now, I ain't no objection to your singin'. But it comes to me, ain't 
you wastin' your time? How much money's it goin' to bring ye? 

Mother 

(Earnestly) 
Why, John, I've always longed to take singing lessons. Don't you 
see it's such a joy! 

Father 
I ain't denyin' it's a joy to some folks that has time for it. But is 
it going to bring in anything? 

Jack 
(Still light-hearted) 
It may bring in some eggs if I try it on the public. (Dodges the 
imaginary eggs.) 

Father 
(Getting down to business) 
I've been wantin' to see you, Jack. 

Jack 

And I've been wanting to see you, father. 

Father 
That so? Well, let's make it short. 

(Looks at clock) 
I've got to start to work in fifteen minutes. I'll tell ye what I got 
on my mind. Charlie Creighton's quittin' his job, an' I've landed it for 
you an' you are to start work next Monday. 

Jack 

(Astonished) 
But father — 

Father 
Now that's settled. It's time you got down to business. I had to 
stop school in the eighth grade. We've done a whole lot better by you 
than my folks done by me. 



THEIR TO -MORROW 8 11 

Jack 

(Still incredulous) 
You mean I'm to stop school and take a steady job? 

Father 
(Shoving his chair back and rising) 
That's the idea. 

Jack 
But, dad, listen. I'm on the championship debating team, my 
scholarship is getting to be No. 1. — You saw my report — The quartette — 

Father 
That's all very well, my boy, but life is some thin' more than arguin' 
and singin'. It's time you got to work. You begin on Creighton's job 
on Monday. 

Jack 
But I don't like Creighton's job. 

Father 
It's good pay and it's easy. Maybe you can work up to foreman or 
somethin'. 

Jack 
But I don't want to be foreman. 

Father 
(Giving his chair an impatient shove) 
What do you want? 

Jack 
Why, I want to go on and finish high school and college and find 
my place. 

Father 
What place? , 

Jack 
I — I don't know yet. 

Father 
(With rich scorn) 
Better go to quartette practice and find out. All this time in school 
and you don 't know what you want to do ? 

Jack 
(Defending himself) 
No, dad, not yet — that's one reason I'm in school. So far school has 
taught me what I don't want to do. 

Father 
(Turning to mother, who has been listening, greaily distressed) 
Didn't I tell ye? It makes 'em discontented. 

(To Jack) 
Look here, it's time somebody learned you a job. 

Jack 
I'm learning a job, all right — the job of making the most out of my 
life. At present I'm building a big, strong foundation upon which to 
rear an edifice that will mean something to the world and do justice 
to myself — that's the way our principal talks. 

Father 
You mean you're goin' to be a carpenter or a mason? 

Jack 
No. don't you see? I — well, I didn't mean it just exactly as it 
sounded. 



12 THEIR TO- MORROWS 

Father 

(Turning toward the door in disgust) 
Oh, goin' to be a poet, eh? Well, I gotta be goin.' Tell 'em at school 
today that you're goin' to quit this week. 

Mother 

John, please don't. He won't like that job. 

Father 
(Disgusted) 
Like that job? Who's talkin' about likin' a job? Do you think I 
like to pound rivets all day for 300 days in the year ? Like it ? 
(He puts on his hat and starts for door) 
You begin work on Monday, Jack. 

Jack 

(Jumping up and facing him) 
Father, I won't do it. 

Father 
What? 

Jack 
I won't give up my future. I won't stop school. 

Father 
(Angry) 
You tell me you won't? 

Jack 
You force me to do so. 

Father 
Who's took care of you all these years? Who's pounded rivets to 
keep you clothed and fed? Don't you owe me nothin'? 

Jack 
I don't owe you my future. 

Father 
You're my son. You owe your life to me an' your mother. It's 
time you paid some of your debts. 

Jack 
I'm going to if you'll let me spend a little more time learning how 
best to do it. 

Father 
(With his hand on the door, left) 
You do your learnin' in the shop. YOU GO TO WORK ON MON- 
DAY! 

(He exits) 
Jack 
(Calling after him) 
I won't. I'll leave home first. 

Mother 
(Greatly distressed) 
Jack! 

Jack 
Mother, I can't give up my future. I'm only an average fellow. It's 
the average fellow who must have an education if he hopes to get any- 
where. I wish I were smarter, but I'm determined to make the most out 
of my life. Up at school I caught the vision of the bigger life. I can't 
spend my life pounding rivets like father. 



THEIR TO- MORROWS 13 

Mother 

Don't be too hard on your father. He has pounded rivets for those 
he loved — 'for you children and me. He doesn't know anything else. 

Jack 

And so he doesn't want me to know anything else. I hate to leave 
you mother, but — 

Mother 
(Quickly) 
You mustn't go, Jack. For the sake of the other children you must 
stay and do as your father asks. If you go, he'll put Dickie on a job 
the first chance he gets. He'll make Dickie pay for it, don't you see? 

Jack 

(Sinking into a chair and covering his face with his hands) 
That'd be like him, all right. 

Mother 

(Going to him) 
Don't, Jack. Your splendid ambition will find some way out. 

Jack 
(Hopelessly) 
That's all right, mother. But what can a fellow hope for now-a-days 
without an education ! 

Mother 
(With a sudden idea) 
(1*) Why, Jack, why can't you go to night school? 

Jack 
(2*) Night school? 

Mother 
(Growing excited) 
(3*) Yes, you know I went there to take Millinery last winter — there 
were crowds of young men in some of the buildings. 

Jack 
(4*) Night school! Why, I could do that, couldn't I? 

Mother 
It would be slow, hard work compared to day school, but you could 
do it. 

Jack 
(Growing interested as the idea unfolds) 
Yes — I could ! Why, sure ! I know some fellows right now who are 
getting their education after dark. 

Mother 

(5*) Why, Jack! Night school is for people just like you — people 
who won't let poverty or anything else keep them from an education. 



* Indicates change in lines to be made in towns which have no night 
schools. 

1* — Why, Jack, why can't you take some correspondence courses? 

2* — Correspondence courses? 

3* — Yes, you know how convincingly the schools advertise as to their 
ability to help young men fit themselves for better things. 

4*— Yes, I could do that, couldn't I? 

5* — Why, Jack, correspondence schools are for people, etc. 



14 T HEIR TO-MORROW S 

Jack 
(Enthusiastically) 

By George! It's for the people who are in dead earnest. It makes 
me think of that quotation we had in English class : 

"The heights of great men, reached and kept, 
Were not obtained by .sudden flight, 
But they, while their companions slept, 
Were toiling upward in the night." 

Mother 

Yes, my dear boy, you can toil upward in the night until you reach 
the heights of great men. 

Jack 

(Earnestly) 
I can do my best, anyway, and never be a quitter. 

Mother 

(Putting her arm upon his shoulder) 
I shall be prouder of you than ever, for struggle gives strength. 

Jack 

(Thoughtfully) 
I'll let the people at school think I'm tired of school. 

Mother 

Oh, no, you mustn't. 

Jack 

When I tell them I'm going to quit school, some of the boys will 
say, "Tired of the grind, Jack?" and I'll just put on that superior .air 
and a bit of a swagger, and I'll say: "Oh, there's pretty good money in 
the job." Then some of the kids who can't look ahead will look doleful 
and say: "Gee, I wish I could quit. How'd you get your dad to let 
you?" 

Mother 

But, Jack, what makes you? 

Jack 

I'd rather the whole crowd would think that of me than know the 
truth — that my dad thought I knew enough and called a halt. 

Mother 

Your father doesn't understand. He lives in the present — he hasn't 
learned to plan for the future. 

Jack 

(In consternation, after a pause) 
Oh, Gosh ! 

Mother 
What is it, Jack ? 

Jack 

How do you go about it to break a date with a girl? 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 15 

THEIR TO-MORROWS 

Scene II — Dining room of the Rowell home. 
Time — Seven-thirty o'clock on the morning following Scene I. 

Characters 

Mr. Rowell An energetic, fairly prosperous business man in the forties 

Mrs. Rowell, his wife An attractive, motherly woman 

Margaret, their daughter A beautiful girl of about eighteen 

George, their son A care-free boy of sixteen, who lives for a good time 

The scene is a dining room, attractively but not elegantly furnished. 
There are doors at the Center, Left and Right. 

As the curtain rises, Margaret is setting the table for breakfast. A 
moment later the door at the center opens cautiously and George's head 
appears. Re is a lad of sixteen, already quite the type of a "sport." 

George 
(Looking around the room) 
Dad up yet? 

Margaret 
(Surprised to see him) 
Why, George, what are you doing up so early? It's only seven- 
thirty. 

George 
(Entering) 
Don't rub it in, now, Maggie. 

( Wheedling) 
I want to see you before breakfast. You can help me fix it up with 
dad. 

Margaret 
Fix up what ? Your slipping out with the car last night after he told 
you to stay in? 

George 
(Nervously) 
Soft-pedal that, will you? Dad isn't wise to that stunt, yet. He is 
getting too tight. A fellow's got to have a good time. 

Margaret 
(In a tone which shows she is losing patience with this younger brother) 
Good time? That's about all you do have. Wait until father sees 
your report. 

George 
(Beginning to coaw again) 
That's what I want you to help me with. I'm not so much afraid 
of mother, but — well, can't you think of some way I could get by with- 
out showing it to His Majesty? 

Margaret 
(Putting down the plates she has taken from the china cupboard and 

looking at him) 
Why should I? I'm losing patience with you. It's time father 
realized just the sort of high school work you are doing. 

George 
Gee, sis — don't crab. Come through like a good .sport and I'll see 
that you get a bid to the swell house-party and dance we're going to 



16 THEIR TOMORROW 8 

give the last of the month. Some swell crowd — a bunch of gay little 
girls — 

Margaret 
(With dignity) 
My dear brother ! I do not need your help when it comes to bids. 
Besides, I do not care for that gay, silly crowd you insist upon going 
around with. 

(Earnestly) 
I wish you wouldn't, George. You're too young. 

George 
(Indignant) 
I suppose you'd like to have me chum with some kid like Jack Butler. 

/Scornfully) 
Help him sweep the halls at school, and then have the rare excite- 
ment of spending the evening with him at the library. 

Margaret 
You might do worse. 

George 
(With an elaborate gesture) 
Not for mine. I'm a live wire, I am. 

(With a sudden thought) 
Oh, say, I heard something about Jack Butler last night — I heard 
some little thing, take it from me. 

Margaret 
(Interested) 
What was it? 

George 
Oh, that's all right. I'll spring it when the time comes. 

(After a pause) 
Here's just a hint — he's not as crazy to be a walking encyclopedia 
as you thought, old girl. 

Margaret 
I'd like to know what you mean. 

George 
I know you would, but I'm too busy just at present. 
(Taking his report card out of his pocket and holding it toward her) 
Say, can't you take my report and chuck it for me, and then tell dad 
about how you lost it — you know what I want; He '11 take that from you. 

Margaret 

(Reproachfully) 
Why, George Rowell ! 

George 
(Presenting another plan) 
Well, then, when I tell dad and mother that there's a bum lot of 
teachers at the high school and a fellow simply can't please 'em, why 
you come in strong on the amens. Get me? 

Margaret 
I manage to please them — all my grades are good. 

George 
Sure— that's just what I'm sayin' — you're a "pet." 
(After a pause, during which Margaret resumes her work of setting 

the table) 



THEIR TOMORROW S 17 

So you won't help a fellow! Well, I guess you like a scene, don't 
you? 

Margaret 

(Carelessly) 
I can't say that I do. 

George 
You'll get your money's worth at the table this morning when dad 
asks for that report and little Willie hands it over. I'd never come 
through and show it, only if I don't he'll call up the prof and get the 
glad tidings first hand. 

Margaret 
It will be wiser to tell father the truth and take the consequences. 

George 
(Quickly) 
I won't take too much from him, you can put that in your pipe and 
smoke it. 

(With a swagger) 
I've got a card of another kind up my sleeve. 

Margaret 
(Startled by his manner) 
Please, George, don't talk that way. Father would do anything 
for you. All he is doing is insisting that you make good. 

George 
(Rebelliously) 
Going to make me, eh? 

Margaret 
(Listening) 
He's coming, now. 

(Putting her arm upon his shoulder) 

Please, George — ■ 

(Enter the father, at center. He looks his part — that of an energetic, 

fairly prosperous business mmi in the forties. He has a kindly face. 

Much of his trouble with George lies in the fact that he is 

inclined to be over-indulgent) 

Father 

(Speaking cheerily as he enters with morning paper) 

Well, how's everyone this morning? I'm afraid I'm late, Margaret. 

(Turning to George as he looks at his watch) 
Isn't this early for you, George, my boy? 

George 
(Obviously nervous in the presence of his father) 
Oh, I dunno. 

(Looking about) 
Where's mother, anyway? 

Margaret 
She's doing some baking before breakfast and frying the cakes. I'll 
tell her the entire family has assembled. 

(She exits R.) 
Father 
(Breaking the awkward silence which follows Margaret's departure) 
George, my boy, I'm afraid I seemed harsh last night when I refused 
you the car. 



18 THEIR TO-MORROWS 

George 

(Sullenly) 
Oh, I'm used to it. 

Father 
(Kindly) 
Don't speak that way, son. It's your welfare I have in mind. I'm 
so anxious that you shall get on that sometimes I seem a little stern. 

George 
(Emphatically) 
I'll say so. 

Father 
I'm glad to have you use the car, but when it comes to joy rides 
with the boys and girls several times a week on school nights, it's all 
wrong. 

George 
(Making the most of an abused air) 
Oh, I guess you never were young. Some men are that way. 
(He takes his knife from his pocket and pretends to he sharpening his 
pencil during his father's speeches that follow) 
Father 
Well, it is a long time since I was quite as young as you are, my boy. 
When I was sixteen I had to stop school and go to jyork. It broke me 
all up. 

(With a slight sigh) 
I guess I'm what you call a self-made man — and not made very well 
as a result. I had to struggle for what education I got. I'd give any- 
thing if I'd had the chances you have, my boy. You shall have a college 
education — nothing shall stand in the way of your having an ample 
preparation for this great game of life. 

George 
(Looking up) 
First time I ever heard you call it a game. 

Father 
And perhaps I shouldn't now, for it's mighty serious business, this 
holding your own among your fellows, this bringing to them the best you 
have and taking the best they have to offer you. A man needs a good, 
broad education as a foundation. Mind you, I don't object to your little 
innocent good times, but I'm enough older than you to know when you 
are starting on the dangerous road that leads to ruin. 

George 
(Who has a hearty dislike for dad's li preaching," moves nervously, looks 

at watch) 
I wonder what's the matter with the cakes for breakfast. Shall I go 
and see? 

Father 

(Closing the little interview with a sigh as he picks up his paper) 

Tell Margaret not to forget the honey for me. 

(George starts for the door R. as his mother enters. She is an attractive, 

motherly woman. She wears a house dress. She brings in the cakes) 

Mother 
Good morning, my son. Mother didn't expect to see you up so early. 

George 
It isn't so early, mother. 



THEIR TO- MORROWS 19 

Mother 

Early for you. 

(Calling into kitchen) 
Come, Margaret. 

Father, do put down that paper. This is the first morning in a long 
while when we all could have a nice little breakfast together. 
(Margaret enters with coffee) 
Father 
Don't forget my honey, Maggie. 

Margaret 
(Laughing) 
It's on the table, Father. Don't you see? 
(They seat themselves at table, Mother R., Geo. L., Father C, facing 
audience. Margaret C. R., back to audience) 
Father 
George, here, thinks I was a little hard on him last night in not 
letting him have the car — but you see the good effects of staying in and 
getting to bed early- — he's up bright as can be this morning. 

Mother 
(Surprised) 
But you didn't stay in last evening, George, you — 

George 
(Hurriedly) 
I've got to go to the library once in a while to look up school work. 
It's the first of the third quarter and they're starting in on a lot of new 
stuff. 

Father 
(Greatly interested at once) 
First of the quarter! That's right, son. How about your card. 
Maggie showed us her's yesterday. I'll wager it was the best one turned 
out, eh, Maggie? 

Margaret 
I'm not sure it was the best. Jack Butler is sometimes ahead of me 
in two subjects. 

Father 
He's that debater, isn't he? 

George 
(Emphatically) 
And janitor, isn't he? 

Margaret 
(Turning to George with almost amusing dignity) 
You are entirely correct. 

Father 
Now about your card, son? 

(To Mother) 
He's been getting on a good deal better lately. 

Margaret 
(Rising and starting with plate for kitchen) 
Who said so? 

Father 
George told me the other day when he broached the subject of that 
house-party. 



20 THEIR TO-MORROWS 

George 

(Fumbling in his pockets) 
I'll bet that card is in my other suit, or I've lost it. 

Margaret 
(Who really is ashamed to do such a thing, but feels she must) 
No, it isn't. Don't you remember you showed it to me a few minutes 
ago? 

George 
(Looking angrily at her) 
Did I? Oh, so I did. Well, I'll search through my pockets and get 
it after breakfast. 

(Margaret exits R. into kitchen) 
Father 
What's the matter with getting it now? 

George 
(Exasperated) 
Well, just because mother said something about a nice little break- 
fast and I think we might consider her wishes. 

Father 
Oh, I guess it won't spoil our breakfast. Come on! 
(Holds out his hand) 

George 

(After he has taken several articles from his pocket) 
There, if you must have it. 

Mother 
(Reprovingly) 
George, do not speak disrespectfully to your father. 

George 

Well, if you folks don't stop pestering me and trying to run my 
affairs I — I — I don't know what I'll do — I mean I DO know what I'll 
do. 

Father 
(Growing stem as he looks at card) 
So that's the work you've been doing? 

George 

I never seen such a bum lot of teachers. They've got it in for me. 
You can ask any of the fellows — 

Father 
What have they got it in for you for? Because you won't study? 
Because you won't try? 

George 

(Hotly) 

Because I'm not one of their pets — because I'm too busy to hang 

around and sharpen their pencils and laugh at their jokes — that's the 

reason. And it's straight goods I'm giving you, ask any of the fellows. 

There's nothing worth learning there, anyway — a lot of foolishness. 

Father 
That will do. I've heard all that before. My son, I'm surprised. I 
thought you really were trying to make good. This card is a disgrace. 
I'm about to do something that grieves me very much — 



THEIR TO-MORROW 8 21 

George 

(Sullenly) 
Then don't do it. 

Father 
(Ignoring the interruption) 
Something that is very hard for me to do, but you are my only son 
and YOU ARE GOING TO HAVE AN EDUCATION ! A GOOD EDU- 
CATION, if I have to take you to and from school myself. 

Mother 
(Warningly) 
Don't be too severe, Ed. 

(Margaret returns and stands listening) 
Father 
Too severe? Look at that card. 

(He hands it over to her) 
Now, my gay young fellow, I've plead with you, I've bribed you, 
I've humored you in order to get you to try, but beginning to-day, you — 

George 
(Threateningly) 
Be careful what you say, father. 

Father 
I say that beginning to-day you don't leave this house on a school 
night — you cut out all dances and girls, except Fridays and Saturdays, 
and you don't touch the auto — and I cut your trim little allowance to half. 
Understand? Then we'll see what kind of a card you bring in next 
quarter, and if — 

George 
(Very indignant) 
Father, I won't be treated this way. 

Father 
What way? There never was a boy who had a father and mother 
more willingly to do for him. You've been spoiled, young man, you're 
postively sickening, my sweet sixteen. You get to work and make good 
at school if you know what's healthy for you. 

George 
And you say I can't have the car or go out for a good time — or 
have but half of my allowance? 

Father 
Not until your record at school warrants it. 

George 
(Rising with climactic effect) 
Then let me tell you I'll stop your old school ! 

Father 
(Astonished) 
What? 

George 
That's what I said. I'll be seventeen next week. I can stop school 
at seventeen. I'll stop your old school. I know where I can get a good 
job — a snap with good pay. 

Father 
(Rising) 
Stop school? You'll do nothing of the kind. 



22 THEIR TO-MORROWS 

George 
I guess I will, all right. I'm not the only fellow who's getting tired 
of it. Your Jack Butler, you brag so much about, sis, well, he's going 
to quit and take a job. If he does, I guess I can. 

(Father steps right. Mother goes to him and, referring to card, urges 

him in pantomime to deal carefully with the boy) 

Margaret 

(Steps to left near George) 

(Surprised) 

Jack Butler going to stop school? 

George 
Sure thing ! Guess he 's sick of the grind. 

Margaret 
Why, it can't be true! 

George 
I just told you it IS true. 

Margaret 
Now I understand why he can't go to the big game. Well, I'm sure 
that he has been compelled to stop. 

George 
That isn't the way he put it, not by a long shot. He said, "There's 
good money in the job, and I like to make money, all right," — that's what 
he said. 

Margaret 
But he was doing so well — was so ambitious ! 

George 
Sure, he's ambitious. That's why he's getting to work. I've wanted 
to do it for months. I just stuck by school because I thought you folks 
wanted me to, but if you can't be decent to me, why I don't plug along 
at that old high school joint when I can be making my own money and 
spending it for my own good time and getting something real out of life. 

Mother 
(Coming left to George) 
(Grieved) 
George, you don't mean it ! 

George 
Oh, it's nothing new to me — I've thought a lot about it when the 
teachers got fresh about my lessons. Who cares about a lot of people 
who are dead, or what "X" equals, or "The Lady of the Lake," or who 
wants to stand up before the kids on a hot afternoon and argue back 
and forth on some fool question as if you really cared who owned the 
coal mines. I'm sick of the whole business. 

Father 
(Emphatically, as he steps toward table and George) 
That will do. 

George 
(Sitting down) 
It's all right for you to be crazy over it, father. I notice you stopped 
school at sixteen and you've made enough money to satisfy me. 

Father 

I 've done fairly well, financially, yes. But it 's been up-hill work ; 

and in the to-morrows it is going to be harder than ever for the young 

men who haven't sufficient preparation. I'd have been way yonder if 

I'd had the education I need — my advancement is checked right now. 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 23 

But, laying aside the money, my boy — I'm leading so much narrower a 
life because my school days were shortened. I feel that my capacity for 
enjoyment is so much less. 

George 
(With the suggestion of a sneer) 
Enjoyment ! That 's good. 

Father 
My boy, I'm shocked to know that after all I've said, you should take 
your schooling so lightly. I haven't any say as to what Jack Butler 
does. I have this to say to you : You are not of age — you are going 
to school every day if I have to go with you and sit in the same seat 
with you. Do you understand ? 

George 
(Very angry) 



You can't force me. 



Can't I? We will see. 



Father 

(Quickly) 



George 

All right, we will see. 

(He starts for door L.) 
Father 
(Hurriedly) 
No, you don't! You go to your own room. 

(Points to door C.) 
And think this thing over. Then we'll decide whether you are going 
to school by yourself or with me. 

George 
Just you wait ! 

(He swings out of the room and slams the door) 
Mother 
(Anxiously) 
Ed, my dear, you've taken the wrong way with the boy. Don't you 
see that you can't drive him to school? 

Father 
(Decisively, as he paces floor in his agitation) 
I insist that he make good. 

Mother 
Yes, but there is just one person in the world who can make him make 
good, and that is himself. 

Father 
(Thoughtfully) 
You're right. I'm helpless there. 

(Emphatically) 
But I can keep him at it. 

Margaret 
You cannot make him learn, father. In his present attitude he just 
wastes his time and is a regular nuisance at school. 

Father 
(Pacing floor) 



Then what can I do? 
We must be careful. 



Mother 

(Helplessly) 



24 THEIR TO-MORROW S 

Father 

(Emphatically) 
Do you expect me to stand calmly by while that foolish boy makes 
the mistake of his life ? If I permit it, he will blame me in future years ; 
I never knew it to fail. 

Mother 
(Trying to calm him) 
I really believe, Ed, that if he could get a good, hard job — get out 
in the world and see what it means to be struggling on with insufficient 
preparation — 

Father 
(As he paces back and forth) 
No, no, it wouldn't do. 

Mother 
You interrupted me, — I say that then he might have the will to go 
back to school. 

Father 
And, again, don't you see, he might get the spendthrift habit and — 

Mother 
(Giving up) 
Well, what shall we do? 

Father 
I'll — I'll bribe him to stay in .school. Perhaps I was too severe. I'll 
bribe him. 

(To Margaret) 
Go and tell him to come here. 

(Margaret exits) 

Mother 

You don't think it would be better to let him try the steady job? 

Father 
No ; he needs the influence of the school. Some day, when we least 
expect it, he may begin to see the practical value of an education. Who 
knows? Let us hope ! 

Margaret 
(Rushing in hurriedly with a piece of wrapping paper in her hand) 
He isn't there. This was on his bed. 

(She hands note to mother) 
Mother 
Gone ! 

Father 
Read it, mother. 

Mother 
(Reading) 
"I'm for fair play. Father left school at sixteen; Jack Butler's quit. 
So can I." 

(The father and mother have nothing to say. They are too 

deeply grieved) 

Margaret 

(Sadly) 

And to think that Jack Butler is to blame ! 

Quick Curtain 
(Note — The close of this act must be played with feeling, but care must 
be taken to keep it sincere and avoid any unnatural melodramatic effects.) 



THE IB TO-MORROW S 25 

THEIR TO-MORROWS 

Scene 3 — Library of the Rowell home 
Time — New Year's Eve, three years after Scene 2 

Characters 

Margaret, Jack and George 

The scene is the library in the Rowell home. Down stage at Right is 
a table upon which is the phone. Down stage at Left is a davenport. Other 
furniture to make an attractive room. The entrance is up stage at Left. 

The curtain rises on an empty stage. The phone rings. Then Mar- 
garet, in an attractive evening gown, enters hurriedly and goes to phone. 

Margaret 

(At phone) 

Hello, Central . . . were you calling 72317 (use a nonexistent 
number of local style) . . . Yes — very well . . . Hello . . . Helen ? 
Yes. . . Oh, I'm so sorry you couldn't come. . . Yes, just an informal 
party to watch the Old Year out. Louise Turner and I are giving it. We 
were great friends when we graduated from high school. I wanted you 
to meet her. . . George? Yes, he's here with an approved number of 
his friends, so you can imagine the combination. . . . Remember, that's 
the last train that will get us to the campus on time. . . . I'll call you 
tomorrow. Good-bye. 

(As she hangs up the receiver and starts for the door, Jack enters. 
He is well dressed in a dark suit) 

Jack 

I beg your pardon. . . Are you in a hurry? 

Margaret 

(Pleasantly enough, a>s she recovers from her surprise at his 
sudden entrance) 
Well, rather. Why? 

Jack 
(Hurriedly) 
I heard the phone. I saw you come in here. I followed. It seemed 
to me that I couldn't go away this evening without telling you how 
deeply grateful I am for this invitation. 

Margaret 

(Suddenly rather distant) 
Oh, you must thank Louise for that. 

Jack 

(Disappointed) 
Thank Louise? Then you didn't invite me? 

Margaret 
No. 

Jack 
If I had known that, I shouldn't have come. 

Margaret 
Oh, that is all right. You are quite welcome, I am sure. 

Jack 
(Determined to make the most of this opportunity ) 
This is the first opportunity I've had to speak to you since that 



26 THEIR TO-MORROWS 

morning, three years ago, when I told you I couldn't go to the game, do 
you remember? (She nods.) Your friendship meant a great deal to me 
in those days. I've never ceased to be interested in your career. I 
know the brilliant record you are making in college. I congratulate you. 

Margaret 

(Still distant) 

Thank you. I wish I could congratulate you upon a college record. 

(She makes a move toward the door) 

Jack 

(Quickly) 

I wish that you could. 

Margaret 
So you've come to see your mistake? 

Jack 
(Questioningly) 
My mistake? 

Margaret 
Yes, your mistake in giving up your education for the sake of a job 
and some ready money. 

Jack 
(As he grasps her meaning) 
I am sorry that I did not graduate from high school. 

Margaret 
Well, I'm surprised and glad to hear you make the confession. You 
were such a good worker I thought it was a great pity that you could 
not look ahead. 

Jack 
I am glad that you were interested enough to care. 

Margaret 
(With spirit) 
I certainly had reason to care. You were the cause of George's 
stopping school. 

Jack 
(Incredulous) 
What do you say? 

Margaret 
He had been wanting to stop for some time but father had kept him 
at it, hoping he'd begin to see the practical value of an education. But 
when he heard that you had given up your schooling for a so-called 
"good job," there was no holding him. 

Jack 
(Thoroughly surprised) 
Why, I didn't know that I had anything to do with it. 

Margaret 
That's often the way in this world. You always were a leader at 
school and supposed to be pretty level-headed. George pretended to 
scorn you because you were not "sporty" but you see he DID follow you. 

Jack 
(Genuinely distressed) 
What a mistake ! 

Margaret 
(Quite coolly) 
I'm glad you feel that way about it, but it is too late. 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 27 

Jack 

Why too late? 

Margaret 
He ran away from home in order to escape school. Then we per- 
suaded him to come home with the understanding that we'd never com- 
pel him to go to school. It would have been useless to make him, anyway. 

Jack 
And he never went back to high school? 

Margaret 
No. So far he's been perfectly satisfied. He's making fairly good 
money, and he has a little roadster and a jolly group of friends and he 
thinks that's all there is to life. You are of the same opinion, I suppose. 

Jack 
(Quickly) 
*Well, hardly. I haven't missed but two weeks of night school since 
I stopped day school. It's slow, but sure. I hope to enter college in a 
couple of years more. 

Margaret 
(With surprise and delight) 
You? Then you are net satisfied with what you know? 

Jack 
Not by a good deal ! 

Margaret 
Now I am sure of what I felt at the first. You stopped school be- 
cause you were compelled to. 

(As she grows more cordial) 
Why didn't you tell us so? 

Jack 
There was a reason, but never mind about that. You know the truth 
now. 

Margaret 
(Impulsively) 
I wish we could arrange for you to have a little talk with George 
this evening. 

Jack 
Why, what about ? 

Margaret 
I wish you'd tell him how you feel about school. Father's just 
breaking his heart over the way George does. Will you do it, please? 

Jack 
(Hesitatingly) 
It is rather trying to corner another fellow and preach to him against 
his will. But I guess I'm equal to it this time. I feel sort of responsible 
for his mistake. 

Margaret 
Thank you so much. You stay in here and I'll send him in after — 
No, I'll pretend I heard the phone and send him in to answer it. Then 
you talk to him. Now I must go. 

(She offers her hand) 



*Indicates change in lines to be made in towns which have no night 
schools. 

*Well, hardly. I haven't missed a school night on some correspond- 
ence courses I am taking since I stopped high school. It's slow, but sure. 



28 THEIR TO-MORROWS 

Jack 

(Gratefully, as he shakes her hand) 
I am very glad that we had this little visit. 

Margaret 

( Cordially) 

I can't tell you how glad I am. I see that you are going to make 

good, just as we used to prophesy for you in high school. You see, I 

thought you'd — well, flattened out, as we .sometimes say — and I couldn't 

forgive you. You're — 

(She hesitates, then continues with sincerity) 
I am going to tell you just what I think of you — you're ever so 
much stronger and finer than you were in those days — 

Jack 
(Pleased, out embarrassed) 
Please don't — 

Margaret ■ 
And I know why : struggle gives strength and develops character. 
I can see you've had a struggle and I admire you for it. I'm sorry I 
misjudged you. 

Jack 
(Deeply appreciative) 
We never can be scholarship rivals again — you are so far ahead of 
me — but I hope we may be good friends again. 

Margaret 
(Smiling) 
Why, we are. I'm glad Louise put your name on the invitation list. 

Jack 
Thank you. We are going to dance the Old Year out, are we not ? 

Margaret 
Yes, dancing begins after the musicale. 

Jack 
May I have the first dance of the New Year? 

Margaret 
(Smilingly) 
You may. 

(Hurrying to door) 
Now I'll send George to you. I think I know where he is. 
(She disappears and immediately reappears to say:) 
I just want to say this : Even if you never get the diploma from 
high school or college, you're going to be a worth-while man. I can see 
it. You are going to be an educated man some bright To-Morrow because 
you have the will to be. There is always a way. 

(She goes. Jack stands, looking after her. He is very happy. 

He hurries to the couch and seats himself as George enters. 

George is still the gay young fellow of Scene 2. He looks 

handsome in a dress suit. He hurries to phone) 

George 

Hello ! Hello ! ... Oh, thunder ! 

(He slams up receiver and starts out) 

Jack 

(Rising and getting between George and the door) 
Hello there, George ! 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 29 

George 

(Shaking hands pleasantly) 
What you doing in here? Haven't seen you in ages until tonight. 
Everything going 0. K. ? 

(Without waiting for an answer he makes a move to the door) 

Jack 

(Quickly) 
Nobody on the phone? 

George 

No answer! 

Jack 
If it was Long Distance it will ring again in a minute. 

George 

(Moving reluctantly back toward phone) 
It'd better speed up. I can't spend my evening in here. 

Jack 

I'm mighty glad that this happened just this way. While you wait, 
I want to make a little proposition to you. It will take only a minute. 

George 

(Surprised) 
Tome? What about? 

Jack 
It's something that may mean a whole lot to you if you have the 
good judgment to go in for it. 

George 
Some get-rich-quick scheme, eh? Are you an oil promotor? Fire 
ahead. 

Jack 
It's something to help you out in the job you're holding. 

George 

(Losing interest) 
Oh, I'm all right. My job's good and easy. 

Jack 
Any future to it? 

George 
Oh, I dunno. I've been promoted once. 

Jack 
What are you aiming for? 

George 
Aiming for? What do you mean? 

Jack 

What are your plans for the future, if I may ask? . . . And I 
have a reason for asking. 

George 
(Breezily) 
Well, soon's I get my roadster paid for, I'm going to turn it in 
toward a big touring car. A fellow can't make the right sort of an 
impression nowadays unless he has a pretty good lay-out, especially if he 
breezes around with a good smart crowd. Keeps me pretty much in 
debt, but I guess I can make the grade. 



30 T HEIR TO-MORROW S 

Jack 

So that 's your plan for the future ? 

George 
That's my big plan. Can't handle too much all at once. Why? 
What are you after? 

Jack 
Like your job? 

George 
Like it? Like it, did you say? No, I don't like it. But there isn't 
much to it. . . It don't take much out of me. I got to do something 
to get the money. Dad won't do anything for me unless I go back to 
school. You know he still keeps after me. Can't seem to see that I 
wouldn't have one-tenth the money to jingle if I was still plodding along 
there. Why, I'd only just be graduating this year! 

Jack 

Look here, that's what I want to talk to you about — school. 

George 

School ! Well, I never thought that of you ! You quit ! 

Jack 

Because I had to. I didn't tell you fellows at the time — I didn't 
want you to know that my father made me stop. 

George 

Your father ? 

(With a whistle) 
Well, he's no relation to my dad, that's a cinch. 

Jack 
It has come to my ears that that had something to do with your 
stopping school. 

George 
I figured that if you could step out, I could, too. But don't take the 
credit. I'd probably have got up the pep to do it, anyway. 

Jack 
Now you see why I'm preaching. It's come over me that because I 
gave the wrong impression, I'm sort of responsible for you. 

George 

Responsible for me? What are you driving at? 

Jack 

Well, I've been driving at something besides rivets since I stopped 
school. Here's one of the thoughts I've been driving into my head: In 
five or six years I'm going to be competing with all the fellows my own 
age who were far-sighted enough to get a college education. Life is 
essentially competitive, we all know that. Well, plain horse-sense tells 
me I don't care to start the race with any such handicap. Get me? 

George 

(Refusing to be serious) 
Hope you don't think that talk's new to me? I took it in with my 
Mellin's food. Grew up on it, my friend. I'm positively immune. 

Jack 

Nowadays a fellow must do some long scheming if he doesn't want 
to get left. Right? 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 31 

George 

(To avoid a serious answer) 
Left, right, left. Forward, MARCH. 

(He gives this with quite the army command) 
Jack 
(Quickly) 
Yes, and the question is how far are you going to be able to march? 

George 
(Easily) 
Oh, I'm all right. There isn't a fellow my age who has an easier 
job or a snappier little car than I have . . . or a better time, by Jinks ! 

Jack 
Can't you see my point? Hundreds of young fellows are denying 
themselves a good many immediate pleasures because they have a vision 
of the future. YOU are speeding up a little hill, and that's as far as 
you are going to be able to go. THEY are preparing for the long, hard 
pull that may bring them to the mountain top. 

George 
Say, look here ! You sound just like my dad ! 

Jack 
I'll tell you why you don't appreciate an education — it's because 
the way has been made too easy for you. 

George 
(A little riled) 
Just who gave you permission to light into me? 

Jack 

I know all this advice comes unsolicited on your part. I take the 
liberty because — 

George 

(Quickly) 

Liberty is right. "Sweet land of liberty." I've gotta go. 

(He again moves toward door) 

Jack 

(Determined to detain him a few minutes longer) 

One minute ! That proposition ! 

George 

(With a gesture of dismissal) 
No, thank you. 

Jack 
(Taking out his watch) 
The sermon will be concluded in three minutes or you can call a halt. 
I know you're a good-natured chap and will hear me through. 

George 

(Waiting reluctantly) 
Well, make it snappy. Don't know but I'd as soon let you talk at 
me as to have to see that enormous Miss — What's-her-name — try to sing. 

(Listening) 
I think Sis has just got her started. After this ordeal the dancing 
begins. I've got a little Queen — Rose La Mar — over see her? 
(Glowing as he describes her) 
Baby blue eyes, fluffy yellow hair ! Oh, my young friend ! 



32 THEIR TO-MORROWS 

Jack 

(Coming to the point with rather startling abruptness) 
How would you like to take a correspondence course with me? 

George 

(Pretending to be overcome) 
Help ! What do you take me for ? 

Jack 

(*1) I'd help you with it. We'd work together. Or night school? 
I've been at it for two years. Great stuff. Now, there's a vocational 
class — 

George 

(*2) Night school ? Why, I have all my fun breezing around at night. 

Jack 

(*3) This class in vocational education is mighty interesting. It helps 
a fellow to decide what his life work should be. 

George 
Life work? You sound like a missionary. 

Jack 

(Unmindful of the interruption) 
Nowadays a man must find the work for which he is best fitted 
and specialize in that — after he's had something of a general education 
— or the chances are that he is out of the race. You say you don't like 
your job. 

George 
I ain't kicking. It ain't hard. 

Jack 
Listen. You're all wrong. I've been thinking this thing out. You 
SHOULD like it, and it should require the very best that you have to 
give. A man must love his job and put his life into it if he hopes to win. 

George 
Slush ! Tell that to the canary. 

Jack 
It's straight goods. 

George 
Love your job? 

Jack 
When I began on a regular job three- years ago, I hated the whole 
business, and that is why I started in night school. I was determined to 
get out of it all, some way. At first I didn't get the connection between 
an education and that kind of a job. Gradually I came to see that as a 
fellow grows he can make his life grow with him. There are all kinds 



^Indicates change in lines to be made in towns which have no night 
schools. 

•1. I'd help you with it. We'd work together. I've been at it for 
two years. Great stuff ! 

*2. Study at night! Why, that's when I have all my fun breezing 
around. 

*3. The courses in Factory Management and Salesmanship are 
mighty interesting and will help a fellow to decide what his life work 
should be. 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 33 

of chances for the laboring man with some gray matter in his top floor. 

(Indicates his head) 
And the good sense to keep it fed up and growing. At present I'm 
going to night school, not to get out of the job I hold, but to develop the 
power to get into it. Great stuff! If I have a better understanding, a 
wider vision than any of the fellows I compete with, and put all that 
right into the work I'm doing, what do you suppose is going to happen 
to Jack Butler and his daily task? I'll tell you, it's a paying proposi- 
tion in more ways than one — this self-investment. 

(Jack pauses; George begins to whistle softly. Jack continues:) 
If you don't know the joy of doing your best and struggling to make 
it better, you don't know anything about the fun of being alive. I wish 
you'd go back to high school or — 

George 
(Horrified at the idea) 
Go back to high school after three years? Go back with those kids? 

Jack 
Any number of earnest fellows do it after they see their mistake. 
Some of them are the leaders at the school right now. 

George 
No; you're talking to the wrong man. I never was good in school 
work. I didn't like it. 

Jack 
Let's look at this squarely. You didn't like it because you didn't 
master your lessons — they mastered you. You didn't know how to study 
— you couldn't concentrate. Concentration is one of the essentials for 
success in life — any business man will tell you so. Don't you see— you 
are the last fellow who should leave school ? 

George 
(Moving about restlessly) 
Don't get so worked up. You make me nervous. 

Jack 
(Still very earnest) 
*Go to night school with me ! 

George 
What next? 

Jack 
It is my notion that we must learn how to think straight and how 
to appreciate life before we are going to be able to recognize our big 
chance when it comes. 

George 
(Impatiently) 
Would you mind telling me what makes you pick on me like one of 
those big brothers? 

• (Pointedly) 
Is it because you are still sort of struck with Maggie? 

Jack 
(Angrily ) 
Leave your sister out of this, will you? 



^Indicates change in lines to be made in towns which have no night 
schools. 

*Take up some evening study with me ! 



34 THEIR T0-M0BR0W8 

George 

(With equal spirit) 
I'll do as I please about my own sister. Understand? 

Jack 

(Calming down) 
I beg your pardon — I was hasty. I regard your sister as the finest 
girl I have ever met. 

George 
Yes, I know — 

(Breezily, pointing as if at headlines) 
Struggles of ambitious young man win charming maid ! Beautiful ! 

(Squinting an eye) 
Why, I can see it with one eye closed. 

Jack 

(Again growing angry) 
I ask you to stop that sort of talk. I can aspire only to her friendship. 

George 
Oh, I dunno. Maggie 'd be struck with the kind of dope you've been 
handing out this evening. 

Jack 
Call it dope if you want to. When it's too late you'll find that I 
am right. 

George 
(Turning suddenly to him) 
I'll bet that if you practice what you preach, in five years I can cash 
in for more money than you can — and a heap more good times. 

Jack 

Five years? Perhaps so. But you come around in twenty years and 
let's see how we stack up. 

George 

Twenty years? 

(Then, with an elaborate bow) 
Very well — we strive to please — twenty years it is ! 

(The dance music is heard. George starts with:) 
I'm off — there's the music. See you later. 

(At the door he calls back jokingly:) 
Oh, you little life saver ! 

(Jack is following him slowly as — ) 

CURTAIN 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 35 

THEIR TO-MORROWS 

Scene 4 — Jack Butler's office 
Time — About 10 A. M. December 31st, twenty years after Scene 3 

Characters 

Jack 

Margaret 

George 

Miss Pearson, a stenographer 

An office boy 

The scene is Jack's private office, up-to-date and prosperous in appear- 
ance. There are doors Left, Center and Right. Desk is down stage. Chairs 
and other furniture, as required. 

As the curtain rises, Jack is at his desk. He looks somewhat older — 
his hair is slightly gray about the temples. Near him sits his stenographer, 
to whom he is dictating. 

Jack 
(Finishing the letter) 
Your wishes regarding this matter will be given prompt attention. 
Very truly yours. Get both letters in the morning mail, Miss Pearson. 
Now for our reply to Cary and Sons — 

(The door C. opens and the office boy enters) 
Boy 
(Handing card to Jack) 
Gentleman waiting to see you — said he had an appointment. 

Jack 
Show him to the upstairs office — he can get my orders there. 

Boy- 
Yes, sir. 

(He exits) 
Jack 
Now, Miss Pearson — Cary and Sons: Thank you for your order of 
the 10th. It will receive my personal attention as to the points men- 
tioned and though we are unusually busy just now, I anticipate being 
able to make shipment by the 20th as you request. 

(The telephone rings) 
Hello . . . yes . . . yes. Well, I'll have to look that up and 
call you later. Good-bye. 
(Hangs up receiver; makes memorandum as he turns to Miss Pearson) 
Now then — ■ 

(The door at R. opens and Margaret enters. She is in handsome 

street costume. Her hair is slightly gray. She is quite as 

attractive as when we last saw her) 

Margaret 
Busy, Jack? Good morning, Miss Pearson. 

Miss Pearson 

(Rising) 
Good morning, Mrs. Butler. 

Jack 
(Surprised to see her) 
Why, Margaret ! What brought you here? Anything wrong at home? 



36 THEIR TO-MORROW S 

Margaret 
No, Jack — it's about — I only want a minute of your time. I can 
wait if you are busy. I slipped in by the private entrance. 

(Starting for door) 
I can slip out again until you can see me. 

Jack 
No. 

(To stenographer) 
That is all for the present. Get the other letters out at once. I'll 
ring when I want you. 

Miss Pearson 
Very well. 

(She exits quickly) 

Jack 

(Pulling up a chair for her) 
Now, what is it, dear? You look worried. 

Margaret 
It's about George. 

Jack 

(Relieved) 
Oh, George. Well? 

Margaret 
I decided to drive into town early this morning to get some extra 
favors for the New Year's party this evening. First, I stopped in to see 
your mother a minute. 

Jack 
How is she ? 

Margaret 
Fine. She says that Charlie goes back to college tomorrow. He's 
coming in today to tell you to stop that allowance — says he can make 
his own way. Isn't that just like him? 

Jack 

Pretty independent for a kid brother. But that's all right — any 
young fellow can make his way — does him good — 

Margaret 
But it's about George I want to speak. I stopped at his home and 
found Rose all upset. She says George is going to resign his position 
today. 

Jack 
You mean — quit his job? 

Margaret 
Yes. 

Jack 

Well, he knows how to do that. 

Margaret 

But Rose says he mustn't. She says it's as good pay as he can get 
and that is probably true. 

Jack 

Yes. 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 37 

Margaret 

But she says George doesn't like the work and feels he ought to be 
getting into something different. 

Jack 

As usual. 

Margaret 

Now, Jack, you mustn't be unsympathetic. Think of his wife and 
his little family. George has settled down — you know he has — and he 
is really serious about life. It doesn't seem as though people should 
suffer always for the thoughtlessness of their youth. 

Jack 
But they always do, my dear. I'm not unsympathetic, Margaret, 
but I can't see that I can do anything. You wouldn't have me hunt up 
George and force advice upon him. 

Margaret 
No, but — 

Jack 
I did that once, just once — at your request. Let me see, that was 
fifteen — eighteen, twenty — 

(With sudden interest as he realizes it is twenty years) 
Yes, twenty years ago this very day ! 

Margaret 

Listen, Jack. Rose says George is coming to YOU for advice. 

Jack 

(Surprised) 
Coming to me? Are you sure? 

Margaret 
That is what she said. 

Jack 
Today? 

Margaret 
Yes, this morning — 'he's not working today. 

Jack 

Well, that's a good one! Twenty years to a day! He's thirty-nine 
or forty and I am forty-one ; well, well, — 

Margaret 

(Not understanding) 
What do you mean by "twenty years to a day"? 

Jack 

I'll explain this evening, dear. I'll do anything I can for him. 

Margaret 

Thank you. Father and mother will appreciate it, and so will I. 

(Starts for door L.) 
Now I must go. Come home as early as you can. 

(Hears someane at door L.) 
There's someone, now. I'll slip out this way. 

(Throws him a kiss and exits quickly R.) 
(Door L. opens and office boy enters) 

Boy 

Mr. George Rowell to see you. 



38 T HEIR TO -MORROW S 

Jack 

Show him in. 

(As hoy starts to go) 
Just a minute — see that I have no interruption. 
(Boy exits. In a moment George enters. He looks older and very 
much more settled. We see him serious for the first time) 

Jack 

(Rising and greeting him cordially) 
Glad to see you, George. 

George 
Thank you. 

Jack 

(Offering him a chair) 
Make yourself comfortable. 

George 
I know you're busy today and want to get away from the office as 
early as possible. 

Jack 
Glad for an excuse to forget the business. Well, what's on your 
mind? 

George 
I'll tell you frankly, I'm sort of up against it for some good advice. 
I've been steering clear of you because — well, pride, I suppose — you being 
my brother-in-law. I told my story to a couple of the fellows about town 
who are getting on and seem contented and all 0. K. and they both 
asked: "What does Jack Butler say about it?" Jim Davis couldn't 
believe I'd passed you by — said you'd given him the tip that set him 
four-square with the world. I don't mind telling you — he says you've 
done as much or more than any man he knows to show the possibilities 
that are open to the working man who makes the most of himself. 

Jack 

Don't take Jim too seriously. 

George 
I've taken him just seriously enough to swallow my foolish pride 
and ask you to consider my case. 

Jack 

Why, you've been getting on very well, from all appearances. 

George 
Not getting ahead much, but I've been able to take care of my fam- 
ily. It's quite a pull to do that, though. 

Jack 
Eats into the money, all right. 

George 
Well, it's like this: I've been at that job for Rogers and Co. a year 
now, and I've got to have a change. 

Jack 
Why? 

George 

Why? My stars, man! It gets on my nerves as bad as that store 
job did. 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 39 

Jack 

Gets on your nerves? What do you mean? 

George 

I don't mind work, and plenty of it — I've got way beyond that. 
But did you ever spend eight or ten hours a day for six days in the week 
doing something you positively HATED to do? 

Jack 

Yes, when my father took me out of school, twenty-three years ago. 
That's the reason I went to night school. Then I began to make a pecu- 
liar discovery : That the trouble was with me and not with my job. 

George 

I know there is something wrong with my job. Every day I almost 
count the minutes until closing time. 

Jack 
So yours is the tragedy of watching the clock? 

George 
It sure is. And, take it from me, it's some tragedy when you wake 
up to it every morning of your life except Sunday. 

Jack 
You're right. 

George 
There's something wrong, all right. You don't feel that way about 
your work, do you? 

Jack 
No; because I'm doing work that interests me — the work that I like. 
It's a good part of my life. I'd rather do it than not. 

George 
(Rising) (Eagerly) 
There, that '.s what I want to be able to say. 

Jack 
I wish that you could, George. 

George 
(Determined) 
That's what I'm going to say. I'm going to resign at Rogers and Co. 

Jack 
What are you fitted for ? 

George 
Well, I've done a lot of different things in the last twenty years. 

Jack 
What do you do as well or better than any other man does? 

George 
(Hesitatingly) 
Why, I — 'don't know as there's anything special, but — 

Jack 
There you are ! ► 

George 
Yes, there I am, but that is no sign that I'm going to stay there. I 
like the out-of-doors. I think I'd like to be an engineer of some kind. 

Jack 
(Decisively) 
Twenty years too late. 



40 THEIR TO-MORROWS 

George 

How much preparation does that require? 

Jack 
Six, eight, ten years. 

George 
Well, let's see — I'm only just turned forty, — 

Jack 

What would your family do while you stopped and prepared? 

George 

(Sits down — taken aback) 
That's right. Of course I couldn't do that. I'm tied down. Not 
that I don't love my family, understand — but it does seem too bad right 
now when I want to get a start — 

(Speaking almost before he thinks) 
There 's father ! 

(Dismissing the thought) 
No, I've too much manhood to take it from him NOW — he needs 
what he has for himself and mother. *How about night school? Or a 
correspondence course? Do they get a fellow anywhere in a life-time? 

Jack 

Too slow for you NOW, when it comes to engineering. Are you sure 
you would like engineering? 

George 
Oh, I don't know. All I know is that I'm just turned forty, and I 
spend three-fourths of my waking hours at work and that's as many as 
sixty hours a week and nearly 240 hours a month and over — let me see — 
over one thousand hours a year. And if I live twenty years longer that 
will be over 20,000 hours I'll put in at something, for I guess I'll never 
get through with working. Can't you see, I want to find my place in this 
world before it's too late? I'm in dead earnest. This is the last day of 
the year. Can't you help me to start the New Year with a brighter 
prospect ? 

Jack 
(Impressed ivith George's seriousness) 
George, I'd give a good deal if I were sure I could help you. This is 
genuine, and it's mighty serious. If you had only realized this thing 
twenty years ago today ! 

George 
Why twenty years ago today? 

Jack 
When I cornered you at that New Year's party; don't you remember? 

George 

Sure enough ! And you said — yes, you said something about coming 
to you in twenty years and we'd see how we'd stack up. 

Jack 

I did. 



*Indioaies change in lines to be made in towns which have no night 
schools. 

*Note : Leave out "night school? Or a" and change "course" to 
courses. 



THEIR TO-MORROWS 41 

George 

By Jiminy! If I'd thought of that I'd never have come with my 
little story. 

Jack 
Why not? 

George 
Well, a fellow has some pride. 

Jack 
(After a pause, during which he looks thoughtfully at George) 
Well, George, are you through? 

George 
(With a sigh) 
I guess so. You see what I'm up against. 

Jack 
(Rising) 
When a fellow spends twenty or more years in living and accom- 
plishes just what he set about to accomplish, we feel like congratulating 
him, do we not? 

George 
(Emphatically) 
We surely do. 

Jack 

In that case, perhaps it is in order for me to congratulate you. 

(He extends his hand) 

George 

(Greatly surprised) 

Me? 

Jack 
Yes, you — 'you are in exactly the place you selected for yourself 
years ago. Recognize that it is your choice that is at the bottom of the 
whole thing. 

(More kindly, as he observes that George winces under the truth) 
I don't want to be hard on you, but I'll wager you are ready to 
admit that you are up against it at forty, because you wouldn't take 
time to think seriously at twenty. You see now that it is the level- 
headed fellow who makes the generous preparation for the big struggle 
for livelihood, position, happiness. 

George 
(Quietly) 
Yes, I see it all, now. But what good is that going to do me to-day? 

(Slowly) 
I can't go back — 

Jack 
(Quickly) 
I know. Let's get down to brass tacks. How many different jobs 
have you had in twenty years? 

George 
Land! I don't know! Eight or ten. 

Jack 
(Thoughtfully) 
An average of two and a half years in each place. 

(Turning suddenly on George) 
Why did you change so often? - - 



42 THEIR TO-MORROW 8 

George 

Didn't like the jobs. 

Jack 
I suppose there was something wrong with your job every time? 

George 
Well I don't know. That was the reason I always gave. 

Jack 
But now you're forty and ready to put the blame where it belongs. 
The jobs were all right — there was something wrong with you. Not 
well prepared were you? How much vision, how much enthusiasm did 
you put into your work, eh? 

George 
(Squirming under the fire) 
Fire ahead! I'm here for the truth. 

Jack 
(Not unkindly) 
All right. George, you are a likeable fellow, well-meaning, capable, 
even talented, but with it all you are a very good example of one of the 
most detestable parasites of the modern business world — a quitter. 

George 
(Surprised) 
A quitter? • 

Jack 
A quitter. You had every chance for an education — you were a 
quitter. And that's exactly what you've been to every decent job you've 
held in the last twenty years. You were content to start in life with 
practically no education. Then, because the men who are equipped pass 
you in the race, you grow discontented. "Well, you may as well swallow 
your discontent and realize that the chances are ten to one that you'll 
never catch up with those fellows. Sounds hard, but you are out for the 
truth this morning. The men in the forties to-day are reaping the fruits 
of their twenties. We most certainly suffer for our lost opportunities, our 
wasted years — every one of us does. That's what you are up against 
now. 

George 
(With a sigh) 
That's right. I'M TOO LATE! If I only knew just what I ought 
to be doing now ! 

Jack 
The same old story. Your best chance now lies in the job you're 
holding. Your self-respect demands that you stay with it. Forget past 
failures, do your best and you'll get on as you never have before. 

George 
Perhaps so. 

Jack 
I feel your days of experimenting are past. You have a wife and 
three children and very little money saved up. It's your first business 
to be sure that the money to take care of them comes in each month. 

George 
Of course. 

Jack 
Let's see! Allen is how old? 






THEIR TO-MORROW 8 43 

George 
Fourteen in May. 

Jack 

You mustn't jeopardize your children's future. , 

George 

(Eagerly as he rises) 
Those children are going to have a thorough education. They are 
going to be made to think seriously about their To-Morrows. Sometimes 
Allen gets pretty tired of the grind of studying but he is going 

(He grows very earnest) 
through high school and college if I have to take him there myself and 
sit — 

(Suddenly he stops and paces the floor) 

Jack 

If you have to what ? 

George 
Oh, never mind. I was just thinking. 

( Resent f idly) 
I can't see why my father gave in to me when I wanted to stop 
school, that's all. It wasn't right. I can't forgive him. He knew I 
didn't realize. Here's the result. 

Jack 

You with your job you don't like are no worse off than hundreds of 
other misfits in this world — men who trudge on and watch the clock 
every day because it brings in the money that cares for the wife — the 
money that is going to make it possible for the little ones at home to 
find for themselves broader, happier lives. 

George 

(Quickly) 
If they have the good sense to do so. Well, I'm willing to make any 
sacrifice for Rose and Allen and the babies. 

(Forcefully) 
My children are going to profit by my mistakes. 

(With pride) 
Allen is a fine little chap — bright enough, I'll tell you. I'll put him 
through school and college, if it takes my last penny. 

(George turns aside in an attitude of deep thought) 

Jack 

Fathers can help or hinder, but remember, every boy holds his destiny 
in his own hands. You would not accept the advice of your father. 

George 

(Walking toward Jack and speaking earnestly) 
Yes, that's so, but I'm going to reach my boy as my father never 
reached me. I've just been thinking, Jack, that I have a new job after 
all, and I'm going to begin it with a leave of absence for a week and take 
Allen out in the woods for a camping trip. We'll camp and fish together 
and I'll have a good opportunity to talk things over with him and show 
him why he should avoid the mistakes I've made. I'll do it in a way that 
he can't help listen to — and I'll stick to my work and make good in it. 



44 THEIR TO-MORROWS 

Jack 

(Shaking hands with George) 
That's the right idea, George, and a good plan. Now you have cut 
out a real job for yourself. 

CURTAIN 



EPILOGUE 



(To be spoken deliberately and impressively in front of the curtain 
about five seconds following the final curtain, and before the lights are 
turned on, by someone with a\ good voice — perhaps the president of the 
club, the chairman of the committee, or the director of the play. 

And so with John Butler's counsel and encouragement George Rowell 
took a new grip on life, devoted himself to making a success of his work, 
and by attention to duty in a spirit of whole-hearted service won advance- 
ment to a better and more congenial position. 

As for his boy, George by patient determination and unflagging efforts 
secured his confidence and enthusiastic cooperation, and now in another 
year Allen will graduate from the university a full-fledged civil engineer. 

George came to a realization of his mistakes too late to repair the 
damage done himself, but yet in time to aid his boy safely through his 
critical high school period. 

He frequently feels a poignant regret over his lost opportunities, but 
is deeply thankful that he found the way to help his boy onto the path 
that leads to worth-while accomplishment and success. 

And now, boys of , the Rotary club, with a desire to inspire 

you to make the most out of your lives, has brought you this play and now 
gives you this message — 

Life calls you ever to a quest, 

To work, to strive with steady nerve, 
To help, to sacrifice, to serve ; 

Life calls — and it must have your best. 



i TRRARY OF CONGRESS 

mi! 

0016 103 813 1 



